Whether you live in an area where you get lots of snow and cold weather or lots of heat, there are times when your dog just can’t get outside. While you are away at work all day, your fur baby can get bored and boredom can lead to trouble. How many times have you come home to a chewed-up throw pillow or trash strewn about the house? But there are some fun, clever ways to keep your dog entertained and out of the garbage while you are away or when he’s not able to get outside.
Indoor Obstacle Course
Get your dog ready for the Westminster agility course or just give her some exercise with an indoor obstacle course. You can purchase agility equipment that folds down and can be stored under a bed or a closet. Or make your own course with chairs, couch cushions and misc. furniture.
Doggy Treadmill
Yes, there are treadmills just for dogs. Doggy treadmills are equipped with safety and security features just for dogs. They are specifically designed for different weight dogs and activity levels. Many come with motivational features like treat holders to keep your dog interested.
Scavenger Hunt
You can set up a hide and seek or scavenger hunt game for your dog to play with him or to keep him busy while you’re away. If you’re home, allow your dog to watch you as you throw a few small treats on the floor. As your dog starts to run toward them, say “go find it!” Do this a few times and then try putting the treats inside things or on low shelves or corners where your dog can find them. Always say “go find it” as he goes toward them. You can then graduate to hiding them when he is in another room so he doesn’t see where you put them. Then let him search for them after using the “go find it” command.
While you’re away, you can set up a scavenger hunt for him by hiding small treats or kibble around the house. Get him started by putting a handful or two of food in your dog’s favorite area of the house.
Tug-of-war
This is always a fun game to play with your dog. It not only uses up a lot of doggy energy but allows you to bond with her. Be sure to buy strong toys designed for pulling.
Doggy Puzzles
Games or puzzles can not only stimulate your dog physically but mentally as well. Most use a treat based reward system. These games and puzzles can keep your dog busy for hours and she may not even know you’re gone. Give her a new one just before you leave to pique her interest and help her associate your leaving to something positive.
Give her a way to look outside
Be sure your pooch has a way to see what’s going on outside. Open the blinds or curtains to a window that she can reach. Give a small breed dog a chair or stool she can climb on to see.
Let Her Watch TV
Give your dog some company while you are away. Turn on the TV and tune it to a dog friendly station like Animal Planet. This will help keep her stimulated and not looking for trouble.
Calming essential oils
Essentials oils can help a number of issues for humans and animals. If your dog has some separation anxiety or is especially active, try using calming oils to settle her down. Lavender, peppermint and eucalyptus can all work well alone or blended together. Put a few drops on her bedding before you leave.
Keeping your dog active is key to keeping her healthy. When she can get outside, make sure her outdoor environment keeps her healthy as well. Arrowhead Pooper Scoopers Dog Waste Clean-up Service makes life easier for dog owners, with complete cleanup and removal of all dog poop from yards, kennels and dog runs, because you have better things to do with your time! Starting at just $10 a week! Call us at 602-391-0160 or visit our website or Facebook page for more information.
